what is isf

ISF stands for Importer Security Filing, also known as "10+2," and is a requirement of the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for all ocean cargo imports to the United States. The ISF filing documents importing information and details as shipments move from point to point, and it must be delivered to CBP at least 24 hours before the vessel carrying the shipment is due to make its final departure to the US. The purpose of ISF is to allow CBP and the Department of Homeland Security to identify high-risk shipments to prevent smuggling and provide enhanced cargo security and safety. The ISF filing requires importers or their agents and vessels to file data electronically with CBP for in-bound ocean vessel import shipments. The information included in the ISF improves CBP’s ability to flag high-risk shipments that may pose a safety threat upon arrival, thus helping to prevent smuggling of substances or people inside the U.S. border.